So, you've got a well worn pair of boots or shoes that have seen better days, the rainy season is upon us, you want them to look like they used to and you're wondering what to do...

Well, follow along as we show you how to rejuvinate that cherished pair, restoring health, breathability and weather resistance to your favorite kicks.

Our agreeable model for this adventure is a pair of Eric Michael Montana. They are on their third season without so much as a hint of treatment given to them in that time span.

Leather is skin, and like your skin, it needs to be cleaned, moisturized and protected for optimal health. Some of the things we enjoy about quality leather footwear are its duability, breathability and protection from the elements. But, when we don't take care of that quality leather, dirt clogs the pores, inhibiting its ability to breath while atracting and clinging to moisture, and sapping the leather of its oils and protectants.

So, the first step towards rejuvination is to clean them with a quality cleaner. Today, we're using the Cadillac Select line of cleaner, conditioner, and proofing.

Following the directions on the label we will apply the leather cleaner to a small area, rubbing it in and removing the excess as we go. When you've completed the cleaning process allow your boot or shoe to dry thouroughly before moving on to the conditioner. In a similar fashion, work the conditioner into the leather, allowing it to penetrate fully before wiping off any excess. Lastly, apply the weather proofing in two or three coats, misting it lightly onto the entire surface and allowing to dry before applying the next coat.

What you will achieve will look something like this. Yep, go ahead and scroll back up to look at the first picture. And, yes, that is the same pair of boots. Yours will also look this good.

For comparison's sake, the boot on the left is our boot, and the boot on the right is a brand new pair of Eric Michael Montana. Pretty amazing, huh?

And, to demonstrate how effective the process is in defending you from the elements, behold...

So there you have it. A fully restored pair Eric Michael Montana, ready to tackle another Pacific Northwest winter in style.

If you have any questions, be sure to ask any of our knowledgable sales staff, they will be happy to help you on your path to footwear rejuvination.

Give your holiday shopping dollars depth and power this year by supporting Ballard merchants as they partner with non profits on Black Friday with the initiative, Ballard Gives Black Friday. Instead of fighting crowds for trumped up discounts, come support communities in need.

This year, Market Street Shoes is partnering with United Indians Labatayeh Youth Home, and will be donating $5.00 from every pair of shoes or boots sold, Friday through Sunday, towards their efforts. Founded by United Indians of All Tribes Foundation in January 1992, Labateyah Youth Home assists homeless youth in the transition from homelessness to permanent housing and self-sufficiency. Labateyah provides safe housing, life skills training and support to homeless young people of all backgrounds and ethnicities, ages 18-24, with a special focus on Native American youth.

Photo Credit: Michael Hawthorne

Labatayeh Youth Home is severly underfunded, and as such, we will be raising money throuh your purchases and donations in kind, towards supporting their facility in Crown Hill. Much of the home is need of upgrade or updating, for items such as electrical work, plumbing, dorm room locks, transportation, computer lab, and so forth. Through our efforts, and yours, we can work towards raising the necessary funds to tackle some of these needs.

"30 years ago, a Grand Canyon river guide forever changed the way people experienced the outdoors. By blending the best parts of shoes and sandals, he created the world’s first Sport Sandal."

Created for function but pure in form, the Sport Sandal revolutionized the way people experience the outdoors, in turn inspiring an entire industry of like footwear. But, with the Original Sport Sandal, Teva brings the aesthetic right back to its roots on the River and inspires us to go and do, whether on the South Rim or Market Street. Available in a host of fun colors for gals and guys, at a $40 price tag that won't hamper your summer fun. Come pick your flavor and let the fun begin.

...back at Market Street Shoes. It is with much excitement that we announce the return of Blundstone to the line-up at the store.

With a history stretching back to 1870, Blundstone is synonymous with the Australian work boot. Because of their rugged good looks, comfort, and quality, Blundstones have become staples of everyday wear as well.

Timeless in their style, Blundstone also produces a number of variations to the classic "500", or Blunnies, as they are more commonly known, and we are proud to be carrying the breadth of the line. Take a look below, there is something for every taste - classic, comfort, chisel toe, lace-up, low, tall, whew... come on in, they're on the wall now.

Several new styles just arrived from Pikolinos. Evoking the best of Mediterranean living, Pikolinos delivers high-quality, comfortable, sophisticated footwear with a laid-back style that embodies a commitment to sustainability through their use of chrome-free leathers, non-toxic water-based glues and natural dyes.

A return to the store from one of our favorite Spanish brands, Wonders, come two styles, Lanne and Denise. Supremely comfortable, lightweight and stylish, both styles will keep your feet happy and supported all day, and look good doing it. Is is any wonder? They're made with love in Spain

Lanne, on a low wedge, is available in Bordeaux and Black, crinkle patent.

And Denise, on a tall wedge, is available in Baltic Blue and Black, crinkle patent.

Right! So right. Such a sweet little Mary Jane, combining the delicacy of a ballet shoe and the sophistication of a city flat, the Right adds that crisp finishing touch to your fall outfits. Available in black or red.